mac-hammer-fan Reviews

The Legend of Doom House (1971)

The International Version is a Masterpiece

[9/10 · 5 April 2003]

An adaptation of a modern gothic tale "Malpertuis", written by Jean Ray aka John Flanders. The acting is good and the story is full of symbolism. There are two versions of this movie: the original (in French or in English) feels more like a horror film but the longer re-edited Dutch version lacks most of the superb atmosphere created by the haunting score of Georges Delerue and is therefore disappointing.

The Whip and the Body (1963)

Superb Gothic Horror

[9/10 · 28 January 2001]

Delirious! Part whodunit, part ghost story and perhaps one of the finest Gothic tales of the sixties. "La Frusta E il Corpo" is a very beautiful romantic horror movie. Don't miss it. The atmosphere is unique, the film is like a painting, the photography and the scenery are exceptional, the music is stirring, and the acting is very good. (Christopher Lee is haunting and the handsome Daliah Lavi reminds me of Barbara Steele) At least as good as the Hammer Film Productions! I am very happy that nearly all the work of maestro Mario Bava is now available on DVD and I can only hope that it will be possible to buy other great Italian classics such as "La Danza Macabra" and "I Lunghi Capelli de la Morte" from Antonio Margheriti on DVD in the future too.

Mondo candido (1975)

Bizarre, but fascinating and full of symbolism.

[10/10 · 27 January 2001]

This movie reminds me at the work of Fellini. It's perhaps even more cynical and extravagant. But "Mondo Candido" is a true, genuine, masterpiece, a rare gem coming from the colourful imagination of the Italian directors team Jacopetti & Prosperi who were responsible for the shockumentaries in the past. Behind this kaleidoscope of violence, black humour and pessimism you will find a series of metaphors and a lot of symbolism. We can only hope that this movie will become available in widescreen on DVD in the future... Highly recommended!